The blood test is also more streamlined than other methods, such as PET scans and spinal taps, which are more expensive and invasive. The blood test can accurately diagnose Alzheimer’s disease with up to 92% accuracy. This is more accurate than clinical evaluations, which are only 61% accurate in primary care settings and 73% accurate in specialty memory clinics.
The blood test works by detecting p-tau217, a biomarker that measures an abnormal version of the tau protein found in neurons affected by Alzheimer’s. Small amounts of this protein leak from brain cells into the bloodstream, and levels can accurately predict the buildup of amyloid plaques, which contain another abnormal protein. A high level of p-tau217 indicates a strong likelihood of Alzheimer’s, while a low level suggests it’s not the cause of memory loss.
If the blood test is integrated into hospital laboratory systems, it could increase access to screening for people in low-income communities, rural areas, and racial and ethnic minorities. Once confirmed, the tests could also help with Alzheimer’s clinical trials and reduce wait times for assessment
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